The GEL is used as a research institute for building technologies that have a low environmental impact

The three story building has a perimeter of balconies that helped to reduce the building’s energy consumption. In winter, heating expenses are curtailed thanks to the solar heat collected on the balconies, whereas in summer, cooling charges are kept low thanks to the system’s natural ventilation. Skylights throughout the building bring in plenty of natural light.

The first two levels of the simple box structure host the laboratories, conference rooms, classrooms, exhibition space while the top and third floor is devoted to two apartments crowned by a clean energy-generating rooftop photovoltaic array. Lastly, the whole program is organized around a central green courtyard that offers workers a respite from the working day.